Use the System File Checker tool to repair missing or corrupted system files. When critical Windows system files are missing or corrupted, some Windows features may stop working correctly or Windows may stop responding altogether.

Windows provides a variety of configuration tools tailored to meet the needs of different users. These built-in tools facilitate your device's customization and monitoring, allowing you to change Windows' configuration to suit your preferences and requirements with precision.

The installation file is typically named Autorun.exe or Setup.exe, but this may vary. If you're not sure, check the Readme file in the folder for instructions about how to run the installation process.

After October 14, 2025, Microsoft will no longer provide free software updates from Windows Update, technical assistance, or security fixes for Windows 10. Your PC will still work, but we recommend moving to Windows 11. Learn more. Note: Use these steps for Windows programs.

Get support for Windows and learn about installation, updates, privacy, security and more.

To request the hotfix package that applies to both Windows Vista and Windows Server 2008, just select the product that is listed on the page. A supported hotfix is available from Microsoft. However, this hotfix is intended to correct only the problem that is described in this article.

In Windows 7 or in Windows Server 2008 R2, you run the System Preparation tool (Sysprep.exe) to build a system image. Then, you try to deploy the system image on another computer.

Using this tool will reinstall the current version of Windows on your device. This tool preserves all your apps, documents, and settings. Make sure to keep your PC connected to a power source and the internet during reinstallation. The reinstall will take you to the Windows Update page in Settings.

There are different ways to remove apps and programs, so if you can't find the one you're looking for, you can try another location. Note that some apps and programs are built into Windows and can't be uninstalled. You can try to repair a program first, if it's just not running correctly.

Software manufacturers can create the setup of their products to use Windows Installer to help make software installation, maintenance, and uninstallation straightforward and easy. Windows Installer 4.5 is released with Windows Vista Service Pack 2 (SP2) and Windows Server 2008 SP2.